Both UCF basketball coaches receive contract extensions

University of Central Florida Athletic Director Daniel White is thinking long term when it comes to the school’s basketball programs. On Thursday, he announced a contract extension for women’s coach Katie Abrahamson-Henderson (Coach ABE), as well as one for men’s coach Johnny Dawkins.

Following a 24-12 record and a trip to the NIT semi-finals in his first year, Dawkins received an extra year on his current deal, adding $1.5 million to his compensation package. He is now under contract through 2023.

“I’m very thankful to Dr. Daniel J. White, (deputy athletic director) Dr. Eric A. Wood, and President John C. Hit for their continued support of me and my staff,” Dawkins said. “It’s a great feeling to know that they believe in what we’re doing as a program and our standard of representing UCF and the surrounding community at the highest level.”

Dawkins’ team doubled their win total from the previous season.

“I couldn’t be more excited to have Johnny Dawkins leading our men’s basketball program,” said White. “The young men on our basketball team are incredibly fortunate to learn from his experience, and develop under his tutelage.”

Like Dawkins, Abrahamson-Henderson completed her first season as head coach. The Knights posted a 21-12 record, 14 more than the previous season. With the extension, her contract runs through the 2022 season.

“We are excited for the opportunity to continue building on the success from last season and look forward to even more in the future,” Abrahamson-Henderson said in a statement.